trolling tips ballyhood lures

Normal trolling speed is between 7-9 mph depending on the seas. The general rule of thumb is to keep the lures as close to the boat as possible without pulling them out of the water. You will see a recognizable pattern to the lures when they are being trolled properly. Keep in mind the shape of the lure's head...we run bullet nose lures close to the boat because they have much less bounce than do other lures. Jet heads or any type of concave head (bubble makers) should be put back a little farther, out in the calmer water so that the bubbles they produce will be seen, and will in turn attract the targeted species of fish. Birds, daisy chains, or other attractors should be placed the farthest back in your pattern, or run them on the outriggers or shotgun.

If the sea is calm, or if the bite is slow I recommend speeding the boat up a bit. Keep in mind the difference in speed will require a lure pattern adjustment. Spreader bars don't have to be a hassle - our spreader bars are equipped with a ball bearing swivel in the last lure where we attach a release clip. Simply tie the spreader off to a T-Bar or cleat on the boat, then run the line from your rod through the release clip on the back of the spreader. Once you get a strike the line breaks free and you fight only the fish, not the bar too! When purchasing the bar be sure and pick up one of the carry cases with it - you'll be glad you did when it comes time to put it away!

Ballyhood manufactures over 30 various trolling lures, as well as spreader bars, bar cases, lure cases, and is a major importer of forged stainless hooks and swivels. If you have any questions about trolling lures, or what you may need for your application, please feel free to give us a call....we'd love to hear from you!